finished up at work today

Today was a bit of an odd day. I finished up at work, but it seemed so incredibly surreal.
I worked on jobs, packed up my desk, had drinks and nibbles with the rest of the Ulv. Press family and received a few beautiful gifts. (including the necklace on me in the pic )

My workmates were constantly saying all day that I'll be coming back in a couple of months.
Trying to get it locked into my subconscious. Heh. Nasties.
They're really very sweet, and probably the best lot of people I've ever worked for. It was really hard to leave, but as I said, it still feels kinda surreal. I've been so busy planning and writing lists (that was for you, Jess) that it all just seems part of the process and I don't feel like I'm taking much in, emotionally.

I have to go back in next week to take over a few of my boxes I'm storing (as they've graciously said they're happy to store them for me). So we didn't really say goodbye.

Last week, my sisters and I sang a song during the Sunday morning church service. It was a song that we had all learnt years ago, but such a long time since we'd sung it, and probably the first time all together like that.
Tash was really keen to get the song together, as it would be the last chance for a long while and she did a great job just organising & keeping us together in between so many other things that were going on. My "Two Favourite Voices in the World" AWARD goes to Leanne and Tash. Thanks a bunch, guys!

There were quite a few tears from my family during/after this, and it'll be something etched in my memory for a long while. I love being with my family.

The Farewell party was fun. My sister and mum had baked way too much food, but hey, that worked out well in terms of leftovers :) I am really glad that Angus and Ange came along. I'd forgotten that anytime those two are in a room together there's bound to be karaoke in the midst...If only there were photos. And my Dad, well...(you know I don't have to say any more :D

My mum has been busy the last couple of days helping me out with my tax, checking out the best way for me to get Pounds into my hot little hands, making me a passport holder, plus trying to find certificates and medical information, all for little ole me. Plus, she makes my tea. I can't stress how awesome it is to have my mum making me dinner every night. Yay for Mince Porcupines & Roast Chicken!

Such an incredible thing...my niece, Bella, arrived at the party and said "Happy Birthday Auntie Kate!" and even though, I think she knew it wasn't my birthday - she was looking for some kind of greeting but had no idea what to say. I decided I'd better make sure she knew I was actually going away for a while and to instigate our writing to each other. Leanne said that the next day Bella was asking her if she'd write down what to say to me in a letter for her, so she definitely understood. I know it'll be hard for both of us.
She'll be my first postcard.